Precocious young pianists and violinists have dazzled audiences for generations, and the new frontier for eager youngsters is now the podium.

A 7-year-old from Arizona, Jonathan Okseniuk, conducted the Houston Symphony in John Philip Sousa's "The Stars and Stripes Forever" during a family concert Tuesday night in Conroe. Jonathan landed the conducting spot by winning the Air Conducting Contest, an online video competition run by Houston classical radio station KUHA.

Robert Franz, the orchestra's associate conductor, described Jonathan's first meeting with the orchestra in a blog post:

"He entered, climbed up on some crates that were added to the podium and got into position. He took a moment with his arms up to clear his head, and then with clarity and purpose, he gave an upbeat and the orchestra began to play.

"Within about two measures (2 seconds) the orchestra realized that he was completely aware of what was going on. Within about 6 seconds he was directing the Houston Symphony! He asked them to play softer in places, and louder in others, and they did. They responded to his musical gestures and thoughts."

The KUHA prize was a one-night gig. But the orchestra was so taken with the youngster that it invited him to come back and lead the "Stars and Stripes" on Wednesday night in a concert at the Church Without Walls.

Although young, Jonathan already is a relative veteran. The Huffington Post and other websites have videos of him conducting when he was 3. When Jonathan isn't studying music back home in Mesa, Ariz., he enjoys playing with toy trains and taking part in a youth soccer program.

FrenetiCore wants a logo that reflects its penchant for fearless dance theater. And it's hoping some talented graphic designer will bite.

"We want you to craft us a memorable and eye catching logo that reinforces what we value: transforming and empowering communities through innovative dance, theater and visual arts. (And lookin' good doing it!)," the company announced last week.

The contest doesn't pay cash, but tickets to the company's late August production, "The Rite of Summer," are among the rewards. So are tickets to Freneticore's Apocalypse Ball, along with two T-shirts featuring the design.

The entry deadline is Aug. 1. See the guidelines and learn more about the company at www.freneticore.net.